What to do with your head during meditation?
Some people equate a bowed head
with introspection and stillness.

The trouble with this posture is that
it puts an unhealthy strain on the neck and spine,
especially if you are meditating for an extended period of time.

Research has also indicated that this position
inhibits a positive attitude and sense of well being,
while promoting worry, fear, and negative expectations.

This is probably why many long time meditators
choose to face forward or upward instead of bowing.
While head is facing forward, some find it helpful to 
cast their gaze slightly downward and tuck in the chin,
but without a severe bend in the neck.

The tradition of bowing heads for prayer or introspection
is probably an attempt at a humble posture.

Bowing at the waist or kneeling
or bowing your head to the ground
while lying face down
all support this goal
without the unhealthy contortion of the neck.  

Back to More on Postures